KIT Magazine - Winter 2019

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

Vol. 31 | No. 3 | Winter 2019 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 | 204-889-3660 | Toll Free: 1-888-393-8082 | info@rtam.mb.ca | www.rtam.mb.ca

1st Place

1st Place

Category: Eggs

By Norma Donley

PN 40037581

Category: Gardens

By Ellen Paxton

2nd Place

Category: Eggs

By Richard Kulbacki

2nd Place

Category: Gardens

By Dianne Nordstrom

KEEP IN TOUCH Vol. 31 No.3 • Winter, 2019

Published by

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

The 2019-2020 RTAM Board of Directors

CONTENTS President’s Message..........................................................................3 In Memoriam / Life Members...................................................... 8 Carol Pelton.......................................................................................... 8 Committee And Chapter Reports.............................................. 9 The Goals of Retired Teachers.................................................. 27 Pre-Retirement Seminars...........................................................29 “THE BIG PAYOFF” For Reading................................................30 A conversation with Niigaan Sinclair......................................31 Denise Bellesia.................................................................................. 32 Notices & Coming Events............................................................39

06

31

Brandon Chapter Members

Niigaan Sinclair

The RTAM Brandon Chapter Members attending the 2019 RTAM Annual General Meeting at the Clarion Hotel, Brandon MB.

A Conversation with Niigan Sinclair

All materials for the next issue of KIT must be emailed with no formatting to dsage@mymts.net and received by August 14, 2019, 5:00 p.m.

Materials published here do not necessarily represent the policies or views of RTAM. The Editorial Committee reserves the right to print, reject and/or edit for clarity, all materials received.

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206-1555 St. James Street Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5 Phone 204-889-3660 • 1-888-393-8082 Email: info@rtam.mb.ca • www.rtam.mb.ca Editor-in-Chief: Doreen Sage Box 252, Neepawa, MB R0J 1H0 Email: dsage@mymts.net Office Administrator: Dennise Bellesia Member Services Coordinator: Nicole Welwood Board of Directors 2019-2020 President: Peggy Prendergast Vice -President: JoAnne Hoyak Secretary: John Sushelnitsky Treasurer: Pat Bowslaugh Past President: Joan Dawson Directors-at-Large Raymond Bisson Linda Blair Bill Cann Ralph Cibula Jack Fraser Guy Hansen Alison Logan Ken Malcolm Brian Patterson Doreen Sage Linda Scott Ray Sitter Beth Smith Design: Gayl Punzalan Creative Director, Blue Ink Media Email: gayl@blueinkmedia.ca Website: blueinkmedia.ca Images : freepik.com and pixabay.com, except the ones provided by the contributors.

Copyright © 2019 by RTAM All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: RTAM, 206 - 1555 St. James St. Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President’s Message Peggy Prendergast RTAM President 2019-2020

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

O

nward and upward! Another chronological report. The first Board meeting took place on June 12 followed by a short meeting of committee chairs. Standing committees were established, the new office staff introduced, and ongoing business and business from AGM discussed. The Officer’s Committee was given permission to address the upcoming elections over the summer, as the date of the provincial election was set. So now, what happens next?

By the end of June, the Manitoba Senior’s Coalition set their plan in motion. John Sushelnitsky and I are the RTAM members on the Coalition and our responsibility is to discuss Income Security. What has come to be is an insert in the middle of the newspaper “Lifestyles” that is published once a month by Dorothy Dobie of Pegasus Printing. The paper is free and distributed throughout the province at locations like your local Senior Centre or Safeway. So pick one up! Until March, RTAM will have a 500 word article each month on Income Security and how older adults are affected by societal events, what services are available to be of assistance, and where they are located.

As well, we will be heard at 10:37 am and 3:37 pm on radio clips entitled “Conversation with Connie” on the radio station CJNU, the Nostalgic Station, located on your FM dial at 93.7 or online at www.cjnu.ca/coffee, or at 725 on your MTS TV dial. The station has a radius of listening ability to Portage La Prairie and Steinbach. CJNU is staffed

mainly by volunteers and supported by the Winnipeg Foundation, who also is where our RTAM Student Award Endowment Fund is located, FOR GOOD, FOREVER. RTAM’s Officers Committee met in Portage La Prairie on July 12 to discuss the recommendation from the Political Advocacy Committee to send a post card of questions for the candidates in the Federal and fast tracked upcoming Provincial elections, that the committee put together at their June 13 meeting.

Blue Ink Media, that designs and produces KIT, designed the post card that you received in August. Because of the small amount of space available on the post card, it became evident that the website needed to be up-to-date. Ralph Cibula, Website Committee Chair, was included with Blue Ink Media and the office staff to set up a working process.

Since then, a lot of work has resulted in the website slowly evolving into a source of current information about RTAM events: the election happenings, committee events like the Wellness Advocacy workshops in September and October, Student Award information, and even some updated Chapter information. By the way, I have already received two invitations to attend a chapter meeting. I am looking forward to attending other chapter meetings so please don’t hesitate to invite me. We encourage you to use the website to keep your chapter members informed of meeting dates and any special events and for events in general in your area of the province that might interest other older adults or retired teachers who are Next page → RTAM.MB.CA n 3

President's Message . . . continued from previous page not already members of RTAM. Call the office and talk to Denise Bellisea, the office administrator, or send us an email at info@rtam.mb.ca.

As well as all of this happening, 42 student award applications have been received and the Student Award Committee is meeting in late August to decide on the four winners of the four $850 awards this year. The Winter KIT will have the names of the winners and their sponsoring relatives. Stay tuned!

This was all possible because a new Acting Executive Director, Daryl Harvey, new Office Administrator, Denise Bellisea, with the help of Nicole Welwood, our Member Services Coordinator who returned July 2 and filled in background information, have worked out the financial system in the office and are now prepared for the audit. Daryl Harvey came to us as a temporary replacement for the Member Services Coordinator in May and surprised us all with her previous experience as an ED with the City of Winnipeg and

then with the Province. She agreed to come out of retirement to help us set up the office so that RTAM, as an organization that has been working toward having a Governance Board, can achieve that goal.

RTAM will hire a part time Executive Director that will be trained by her before she goes back into retirement, which I hope is not for the foreseeable future. We could not have accomplished what we have without the hard work and cooperation of this great team.

And there you have it. Another relaxing, quiet, summer break. Hope you had one. Actually, I rather like the excitement and writing all these reports, while looking out over a lovely Lake-of-the-Woods bay near Kenora on a hot gorgeous summer day.

RTAM

Photography CONTEST KIT Editorial Committee WINTER 2020 PHOTO CONTEST The two categories are:

• I Am Ready For My Close-up: Take a picture of something 14 centimetres or less and make it look big.

• Black and White Photography: Indoors or outdoors, any subject but no human faces.

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RTAM KIT Winter 2019

Judging by Gayl Punzalan, Creative Director of Blue Ink Media Full contest rules and entry forms available at www.rtam.mb.ca and at the RTAM office.

All entries to be sent by mail, email, fax or delivered to RTAM no later than 4:00 p.m., APRIL 3, 2020.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

The New Government Must Invest in Public Education Reprinted with permission from the Manitoba Teachers' Society Before the Manitoba provincial election, the Manitoba Teachers’ Society developed a postcard much a did we in addressing the concerns of retired teachers as senior citizens. We mailed our postcard to you and hoped that the issues and questions were useful in your encounter with the provincial and federal hopefuls coming to your door.

The MTS postcard had the problem of distribution. How do you get a postcard out to the general population? Regardless of that problem, we think that the points raised in their postcard are worth a second, if not a first, look. They have given us permission to print their postcard and in light of the K-12 Education Review to be reported on by February 2020, we think you will find it interesting to see the priority of concerns given by the MTS to all political parties, and in particular to the “new government”. – John Sushelnitsky, RTAM Political Advocacy Chair

; FUND EDUCATION Public education is a long term investment which can generate social benefits, such as a healthier population, a higher standard of living, and a reduction in crime. These social benefits can lessen the demand for social assistance, public health care, and criminal justice services.

The new government must ensure that public education funding is stable, adequate and sustainable.

; ADDRESS HUNGER IN THE CLASSROOM With the second highest child poverty rate in Canada, every day many Manitoba children go to school hungry.

Research shows that hungry children have lower math scores, and are more likely to repeat a grade, come to school late, or miss it entirely due to illness.

The new government must establish a universal meal program for all school-age children.

; BRING BACK THE CLASS SIZE CAP Students who have greater access to individual attention from their teacher achieve greate academic success.

In 2017, the provincial government removed the cap on class size for kindergarten to grade 3.

Eight-four per cent of K-3 teachers say that the removal of the class size cap has negatively impacted their ability to provide individual attention to students.

; IMPROVE ACCESS TO CLINICIANS AND STUDENT SUPPORT SERVICES Early assessment of learning disabilities improves performance and educational outcomes.

In Manitoba, assessments can take more than a year, affecting students' abilities to reach their full potential as learners. The new government must reduce the wait time for assessing students with learning disabilities and ensure that students requiring clinician resources have timely access.

; CONSIDER CLASS COMPOSITION Over the years classroom diversity has grown beyond behavioural and learning challenges to include socio-economic backgrounds, languages, cultures, religions, sexual orientation and more.

The new government must consider class composition and ensure inclusionary practices are approriately resourced and supported.

RTAM.MB.CA n 5

COMMITTEE REPORTS

RTAM Meets with TRAF John Sushelnitsky, Political Advocacy Chair

Bryton Moen, Peggy Prendegast, Alison Logan , Pat Bowslaugh, John Sushelnitsky

O

n October 21 there was a cordial meeting of RTAM representatives with the TRAF Board at its Office at The Forks. The purpose of the meeting was twofold. First, to receive a cheque for $500 which goes towards defraying RTAM expenses.

Secondly, to pose some questions to TRAF for a better understanding of its operations on our behalf.

The first item had to do with the future of defined benefit pension plans, to which the TRAF board chairman Bryton Moen and TRAF CEO Jeff Norton replied that they had no direct information. We shared with them the concern that the federal government might try to achieve by regulation changes that they were not able to pass in legislation. A second query had to do with a recent survey that TRAF has conducted and it was learned that this is a process that takes place every four

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years. As far as the future growth of TRAF staff, it was explained that there were efficiencies gained by having an in-house accountant and lawyer to process issues which often arise. In addition, the role of CEO and Chief Investment Officer has been divided where previously Mr. Norton had assumed both roles. The Investment strategies are managed by 30 managers.

The fourth item had to do with the newsletter Horizon. The newsletter is part of the ongoing evaluation of how well TRAF is communicating with their 38,000 member clients. The final item was the ongoing RTAM preparation towards having an RTAM member as part of the TRAF Board.

Representing RTAM were: Peggy Prendergast, President; Pat Bowslaugh, Treasurer; Alison Logan, Pension Chair; and John Sushelnitsky, Secretary. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Membership & Chapters Committee Bits and Pieces Linda Scott, Membership and Chapters Committee Chair

S

ince the AGM in May 2019 the following queries and suggestions have been brought to the attention of the Membership and Chapters Committee: • 1.

The In Memoriam slides at the AGM did not have a certain teacher's name listed.

Unfortunately if a teacher was not a member of RTAM at the time of passing we do not received notification of his/her passing.

RTAM lists the passing of RTAM members unless the next of kin advises otherwise.

2. At the 2020 AGM the In Memoriam slides will be displayed at a slower pace.

3. One of our RTAM Chapters contacts all new retirees and personally invites them to join RTAM as well as their Chapter. They have had a very enviable success rate.

4. We should challenge our Chapters to take on a philanthropic challenge each year. Some suggestions were: • A non-perishable food collection for a food bank • Collecting drink tabs for wheelchairs • Visiting a personal care home to speak to a resident who has few or no visitors • At age 12 youth begin to develop empathy. If we can reach out and develop relationships with them we can help prevent elder abuse. Perhaps we could approach a teacher and see if they

• • • • •

might want to set up a day to visit a Seniors' residence (a good time would be Remembrance Day to ask what it was like to live through a war).

Adopt a needy family and surprise them each month with a small gift such as a board game, a food hamper or materials for a special craft such as Christmas tree ornaments.

Become a pen pal with a student who is struggling with writing.

Collect travel shampoo, hand cream etc. and donate them to a shelter Call a retired shut in monthly Establish a walking group MAKE SURE TO HAVE FUN at your gettogethers and meetings. Maybe have a Board Game, cribbage, bingo afternoon or go to a business such as Across the Board Cafe (https://acrosstheboardcafe.com/) where games from all over the world are available to play.

If you decide to try one of these ideas please send a note to office@rtam.mb attention to the Membership and Chapters Committee to let us know how everything went.

If you need funds to try one of these activities apply for a Chapters Initiative Grant: http://bluetilde. ca/1

RTAM.MB.CA n 7

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Concerns In Portage On Day Of The Older Person Rae Hathaway, Portage Online

The proclamation signing

T

oday is the United Nations International Day of the Older Person.

It began in 1990, and was marked last Friday in Portage, at a gathering in a local restaurant, where Mayor Irvine Ferris signed a proclamation in support.

It was organized through the Retired Teachers' Association of Manitoba, and John Sushelnitsky says this year's theme is equality, meaning seniors receive the same treatment as younger people.

"Because seniors are generally regarded as having no power," he says. "Our organization, the Retired Teachers' Association, basically works in conjunction with seven other organizations, and in all cases, we're looking out to improve and maintain living conditions for senior citizens."

Sushelnitsky adds possible changes to government pension regulations are a concern.

"The federal government wanting to away from defined benefits to a defined contribution," he says.

"Right now, the system we have assures us of what our income will be for the rest of our life. But if they move to a different system, the income will depend on the stock market, and there'll be no certainty

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RTAM KIT Winter 2019

John Sushelnitsky, RTAM Board Member

Mayor Ferris signs the proclamation

what a person's pension will be the next year."

Mayor Irvine Ferris calls supporting seniors important.

"A large portion of our population here is made up of seniors," he says. "And the trend is that in the future we're going to have a larger proportion of our seniors. Baby boomers are ageing rapidly, and they'll be joining our existing seniors, so we'll see a large portion of our population in the senior category." 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

MTS 100th Anniversary Gala Beth Smith, Bylaws & Policy Chair

P

lanning began in October 2016 for the Manitoba Teachers’ Society 100th Anniversary Celebration. The slogan “A Century of Solidarity” was chosen.

Some of the accomplishments over the 100 years are as follows: • • • • • • • • •

1919 The Manitoba Teachers’ Federation founded.

1920 Federation recognized by Provincial Legislature, first office in McIntyre Block.

1924 Hires first full-time General Secretary.

1925 Successfully sponsors Teachers’ Retirement Fund Act. 1927 Standard contract established.

1938 Offers accident insurance.

1942 Bill for automatic membership, name changed to The Manitoba Teachers’ Society.

1948 Teachers included under the Manitoba Labour Relations Act. 1949 Virden first to adopt a gender-neutral

• • • • • • • •

•

single salary schedule.

1962 New pension improvements based on final 15 years of teaching.

1967 Pressure for better qualifications leads to University of Manitoba, Faculty of Education.

1972 Duty-free lunch time established.

1973 MTS wins employment insurance to cover summer months.

1974 Maternity leave applies to teachers, grievance revamps Employment Standards Act. 1983 EAP support for teachers introduced.

1990 Teachers win preparation time.

1994 More gains: pregnancy sick leave, due process for principals, extracurricular ruled voluntary.

2018 Full maternity top-up achieved.

The MTS 100th Anniversary Gala was held at the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Winnipeg on May 24, 2019.

Ray Sitter

A

t the September, 2019, RTAM Board Meeting, communication was received that, due to unforeseen circumstances, Ray Sitter from Brandon, MB, was no longer available to serve on the 2019 - 20 Board.

Ray initially joined the RTAM Board as a Director in 2005 and has also served on various committees such as the AGM and Elections, Membership and Chapters and Pension Committees. Ray has also worked tirelessly to organize and to present at annual RTAM PreRetirement Seminars.

We, at RTAM, thank Ray for his many years of dedicated and attentive service and wish him well going forward.

RTAM.MB.CA n 9

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Teachers Join In Solidarity Parade Reprinted with permission from the Manitoba Teachers' Society

H

undreds of Manitoba public school teachers joined with hundreds of others in a parade to commemorate the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike.

Delegates to the MTS Annual General Meeting took a break from business on Saturday, May 25, to join hundreds of other Manitobans in the solidarity parade through downtown Winnipeg.

The 1919 strike began just weeks after the Manitoba Teachers’ Federation (which became The Manitoba Teachers’ Society) was created. Much of the AGM was in celebration of the formation of the union and the accomplishments achieved for teachers, students and public education in general.

History was on full display at this year’s meeting with displays of documents and artifacts, a reproduction of the first issue of The Manitoba

Teacher (then called The Bulletin) and the unveiling of a website dedicated to the Society’s first 100 years.

The history website can be accessed from the homepage of the main MTS site at www.mbteach.org.

Raymond Bisson

I

t is with sadness that we inform you of the passing of former RTAM Board Member, Raymond Bisson, Winnipeg MB on Sunday, October 20, 2019. Raymond had served faithfully on RTAM committees and also as the acting Treasurer in 2018-19. He was an active member of the RTAM Board of Directors, as well as of the ÉMR Chapter.

During his life, Raymond has been a teacher, the Superintendent of the MB French School Division, the Principal of a French school in Norwood, as well as the Past President of the Franco-Manitobaine Society (SFM) and of the Festival du Voyageur.

Raymond was very involved in many other aspects of life as an educator and a Francophone in MB. Raymond will surely be missed.

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COMMITTEE REPORTS

Wellness Advocacy and Student Awards Committee Linda Blair, Wellness and Student Awards Committee Chair

W

e held a very successful Photography Workshop on Friday, September 20th despite the downpour of rain. Due to the positive feedback, we are hoping to have Gayl Punzalan present a follow-up workshop in September, 2020. Also there has been interest expressed in a repeat of this workshop as presented in September, 2019. If you would be interested in either workshop or both, you can indicate your interest to the RTAM office. As a committee, we appreciate knowing what our membership would engage in if presented with the opportunity.

On Friday, October 18th, we held a very successful Extreme Winter Driving Conditions seminar.

Christian from MPI guided us through a power point with detailed information regarding the various winter driving scenarios. Several questions were raised and answered. Secondly, Sam from TONS (Transportation Options Network for Seniors) presented a power point which informed us of the various ways that we could access transportation when driving ourselves would not be a viable option. Once again the opportunity for questions was afforded us and many questions were asked and answered. www.tonsmb.org or info@tonsmb. org or 204-799-1788.

There will be a Seniors Safety seminar by Garnie McIntyre on Tuesday, November 26th. Sorry that

the arrangements for this seminar arrived too late to appear in Kit so you could register to attend this seminar. However we were able to advertise on our website and in letters to Chapter presidents.

Do save the date: Thursday, February 13, 2020 for a Wills, Power of Attorney, Health Directive to help prevent Elder Abuse seminar by Sharon Tod. Location will be MTS building, 191 Harcourt Street.

Time is to be determined. We are opening up this seminar to RTAM members as well as their guests as the space will allow for more participants.

Future seminars could include Ageism, Decluttering, Cooking for One, Navigating the Internet to name just a few ideas that may or may not come to early furturiction. I encourage you to checkout our RTAM Website for current Wellness happenings in particular. Be sure to checkout the website periodically as information on events is added.

If you have ideas for seminars, workshops, presenters, etc. please pass on your information to the office. Our committee may be able to use your information to put together that event.

Lastly, remember there is a Wellness grant.

If your Chapter needs funds to proceed with a Wellness event, here is a grant that may provide these funds. Check the website for more information.

Until next time, stay well.

RTAM.MB.CA n 11

COMMITTEE REPORTS

WISE Manitoba 2019 Equality Breakfast Linda Blair

O

n Friday, October 18, 2019, Peggy Prendergast and I attended the Working in Support of Equality (Manitoba) Breakfast. The topic was (Still) Calling for Justice: Redress and Healing Beyond the National Inquiry. Qajag Robinson and Dr. Karine Duchamel shared the address to the audience. Both women were highly qualified, knowledgable and articulate. They were both involved in the National Inquiry. They spoke about the mandate of the National Inquiry as well as sharing precise examples of their findings.

When I hear the word, colonialism, in any and all of its forms, I get a distaste for the speaker's words.

However, keeping my mind open to receiving new

insights, I learned that the cultures involved in this Inquiry are vastly different amongst themselves as well as amongst our average Canadian cultures.

These cultures result in other people having a very different way of doing life. The various ways of doing life are neither right or wrong, only different.

As we understand the culture, we can move forward to positive results.

Going forward, what would they recommend we do as individuals to promote equality as we are only one person? Treat everyone the same.

The Final Report of the MMIWG Inquiry is at: https://www.mmiwg-ffada.ca/final-report/

Home Safety While Away When preparing to leave for vacation, keep in mind that the items you leave behind are just as important as the items you take with you. Following these simple steps can help you have a worry-free vacation.

G

et a home monitoring system. With the expanding list of technology and products available, it’s now possible to check the status of your home with a simple click to make sure everything is the way you last left it.

Keep up on regular home maintenance. Have a trusted neighbor or family member help with the upkeep of the lawn and watering the plants.

Having a house sitter such as a family member or friend, especially for longer trips can ensure that your house is being properly taken care of and

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eliminates the worry of your home being empty for an extended period of time.

Most importantly, lock every- thing. Double check to make sure all doors (including the garage) and windows are locked. Remember to have one final look at all points of entry before heading out. 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Preventive Health & Aging – Education Series Presented by CARP on November 4

•

• • •

• • • •

• • • • • •

Healthcare consumes 50% of the budget with the other 50% having to be split multiple ways to cover other health issues. A focus on preventive strategies could lessen health care costs.

Get your tetanus shot every 10 years Add life to years, not years to life How to prevent fragility? A – activity, V – vaccinate, 0 – optimize medications, I – interact socially, D – diet and nutrition Endurance, strength, flexibility, balance Move as things done is important, not necessarily specific activities Ability to recover decreases as we age.

As we age, our bodies need more protein such as chicken, fish, eggs, dairy products, soy, legumes, spinach and milk 175 pound (80 kg) person needs 80 to 120 grams of protein per day Calcium sources: milk, yogurt, cheese, fortified plant based foods Dark green vegetables such as broccoli, kali and spinach Fish with soft bones that are eaten such as canned salmon or sardines In those over 65 years of age, 1 in 3 fall per year 8 exercises: Staying on your Feet website, www.preventsfalls.ca

• •

•

• • •

• • • • • • • • •

6 dimensions of wellness: social, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, physical, occupational Lifestyle medicine suggestions include regular exercise, weight management, abstain form tobacco, manage stress and anxiety Research shows that happiness is 10% circumstances, 50% genetics set point, 40% intentional thoughts and actions Cultivating positive aging has been shown to increase life by 7 years “The impossible can always be broken down into possibilities.” Author unknown Dayah proverb: Where the heart is willing, it will find a thousand ways but where it is unwilling, it will find a thousand excuses.

Sing the song “Bring Back” and alternate standing and sitting on the B’s HOPE: Helping, Older, People, Engage Website: www.activeagingmb.ca Can’t: cut off the ‘t Think of what you can do when you work together ACE: Active, Connected, Engaged leads to Socialization Be part of creating change Adult immunization record: download from CARP website $66 billion is saved by caregivers providing care

RTAM PRE-RETIREMENT SEMINARS For Winnipeg and Surrounding areas: When: Saturday, February 22, 2020 Time: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Where: Holiday Inn Winnipeg Airport West, 2520 Portage Avenue, Winnipeg, MB To register, please email office@rtam.mb.ca by February 7, 2020

For Brandon and surrounding areas: When: Saturday, March 14, 2020 Time: 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Where: To be announced To register, please email Pat Bowslaugh at bowslaughp@gmail.com by February 29, 2020

RTAM.MB.CA n 13

CHAPTER REPORTS

Dauphin Area Retired Teachers' Association (DARTA) Joyce McGinnis

D

auphin Area Retired Teachers had a “Feel Good Day” when we were able to help Whitmore School with their “Fuel Good Day.” They were one of the schools chosen in Manitoba

by Co-op to receive money from the gas sales at the Dauphin Co-op Gas Bars during Fuel Good Day. Ten DARTA members volunteered their time to help run their BBQ on September 17. The local elementary school raised $1,475 from the BBQ. They received $5,600 from the Co-op in gas sales for that

Coffee Break '19

T

Joyce McGinnis, DARTA Member

he Dauphin Area Retired Teachers hosted a Coffee Break afternoon on October 11 at the Dauphin Market Place Mall. This was a fundraiser for the Alzheimer’s Society. With the sale of baked goods and donations we were able to donate $571.30 to the society.

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day. With an additional $1,000, from the school funds, their total earnings for the day was $8,075.

During the hours of the BBQ we were entertained

by Desiree Dorian, a local singer, and The D Steppers, a local dance group.

The money from the BBQ will go towards their lunch program. The gas sales profits are slated for soccer nets, basketball nets, swings, and a rock garden seating area. A very successful day was had by all!

CHAPTER REPORTS

St. James-Assiniboia Chapter Dorothy Young

T

he St. James-Assiniboia Chapter of RTAM held a very successful Coffee House and AGM in McMaster House on Thursday, September 12, 2019. Thirty-nine of our members were in attendance and three guests. The Executive elected for 2019-20 at the meeting was: Chairperson Lynn Land Vice Chair Shelley Herbert Secretary/Recorder Rudy Peters Treasurer Emily Williamson Membership/ Communications Dorothy Young Members at Large Marj Bilous, Will Peters,

Linda Scott, Carol Szuminsky We also have three members on the Provincial RTAM Board of Directors: Bill Cann, Alison Logan and Linda Scott Thanks to Provincial RTAM’s financial support, members present enjoyed coffee/tea/water as well as delicious apple crisp and ice cream. Thank you to Emily Williamson, Lynn Land, Shelley Herbert, and Mary Starodub our wonderful bakers! The entertainment at the Coffee House was the gift exchange. Members present had their names drawn from a pumpkin and they were entitled to choose a wrapped package from the table or steal an opened package from someone who had chosen

before them. This was a lot of fun and twenty-five members went home with prizes. On behalf of the Chapter, thanks to Linda Scott for getting and wrapping the gifts for the exchange. Seven door prizes were also awarded. Thank you to Lynn Land, Dorothy Young, Marj Bilous and Carol Szuminsky for your donated prizes. So 27 people did not go home empty handed! .

James Bedford, the President of The Manitoba Teachers’ Society brought greetings. He expressed a desire to work for closer ties between active and retired teachers, the need for a strong association, and is looking forward to receiving advice on how to strengthen the public education system. He introduced Nathan Martindale, Vice-President of the Society.

Peggy Prendergast, President of the Provincial RTAM brought greetings and spoke about Bill C27 and the coalition that is taking a close look at it.

She expressed satisfaction at the establishment of a capital fund within the Winnipeg Foundation in the amount of $50,000 the interest on which will used to provide awards to nominated descendents of retired teachers. She expressed the hope to see it grow through donations to the fund. She also drew attention to several booklets of interest to seniors, and announced that the RTAM website was being redesigned to make it more user friendly.

RTAM.MB.CA n 15

MTC Class of ’59 Celebrate 60th Norm Guilbert

The Organizing Committee: L-R: Norman Guilbert (C), Norman Fullerton (B), Bert Suss (M), Mary Eshelby McQueen (B), Joseph Plett (L), Cynthia Keith Robins (G), Emily Jansen Williamson ( J)

A

s dawn gently broke, the sun edged above the horizon heralding a clear, blue, cloudless sky reflecting a similar late summer day sixtyone years earlier when six hundred forty eager young women and men briskly and purposefully navigated their way to register at the Manitoba Teachers’ College for a year of teacher training.

This day, somewhat less energetically but still purposefully, ninety-eight graduates ambled to register for the Sixtieth Anniversary Reunion at the Pancake House McGillivray and receive their photo name tags.

After a hearty breakfast special some embarked on an interesting and educational Winnipeg City bus tour, others went to the newly designed Assiniboine Park Zoo while some made their way directly to the former Manitoba Teachers’ College, now the Canadian Mennonite University, to stroll

about the campus or have a leisurely coffee and visit at the campus Folio Café.

The ringing of an antique hand bell called everyone to dinner. Open seating enabled friends and acquaintances to sit as desired in the former Dining Room. Grace was recited, Territory One acknowledged and a delicious catered meal was served.

Special thanks were extended to all the class reps who did all the hard work of contacting classmates.

Excellent entertainment was provided by the Fort Richmond Collegiate Show Time Jazz. The last selection was “Early One Morning” and everyone joined in. A short competitive team quiz followed with winning teams receiving gif cards.

As the day came to an end the hand bell was rung the last time and “class dismissed” with fond farewells and goodbyes.

MTS Time Capsule Beth Smith

S

aturday, October 26, 2019, at Presidents' Council, we witnessed the sealing of the MTS Time Capsule. Former Society President Rob Banister was on hand to address us and - along with current

16 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

MTS President James Bedford, ÉFM President Valérie Rémillard and RTAM representative Beth Smith - seal the capsule. Looking forward to the reopening in 2044.

RTAM Is Leaving A Legacy RTAM Student Award Program Peggy Prendergast, RTAM President

Spencer Christie

T

Olivia Erickson

he RTAM Endowment Fund was established with The Winnipeg Foundation in 2013 with an initial contribution of $50,000 enabling four awards of $500. The Fund has grown to provide support this year for four $850 awards to our very deserving young relatives.

Endowing the RTAM Fund at the Winnipeg Foundation allows us to enlarge the size of the award available to each student over time. .

LET’S STRIVE FOR FOUR $1000 AWARDS NEXT YEAR!

Marissa Claire Hamlin

Alexander Iwanchysko

Please consider adding capital to the growth of the RTAM Endowment Fund. Contribute to The RTAM Endowment Award Fund at the Winnipeg Foundation by phone, mail or internet with an in memoriam gift or in your will or just your charity of choice for next year.

ALL DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE Check our website at www.rtam.mb.ca or www.wpgfdn.ca to find out how.

Brief description of post-secondary plans provided by the award recipients.

Spencer Christie I intend on pursuing a degree in Physics at the University of Manitoba. Afterwards, I am interested in entering a medicine school in order to enter the medical field, although that is far along in the future.

Olivia Erickson I am currently attending Brandon University and working towards completing my Bachelor of Science degree. After I finish my first degree my plans are to attend medical school, hopefully at the University of British Columbia and pursue Dermatology and/ or

Plastic surgery. My end goal would be to eventually own my own dermatology and low level plastic surgery practice.

Marissa Claire Hamlin Marissa Claire Hamlin is currently attending the University of Ottawa in the Faculty of Science pursuing an undergraduate degree in biology. She was also accepted into the House of Commons Page Program for the 2019-2020 year.

As an avid lover of nature and the environment, Marissa plans to use her post-secondary education in biology in order to pursue field research that will contribute to

issues of environmental and social significance. She wants to focus on the changing ecology of sub-arctic regions in consideration with the new pressures and challenges of climate change.

Alexander Iwanchysko I am attending the University of Manitoba in the Faculty of Engineering. In my second year I hope to get accepted into the Department of Electrical Engineering and earn my degree in that field. After I get my degree I plan to work somewhere in rural Manitoba.

RTAM.MB.CA n 17

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

18 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

Photograp

phy Contest

SUMMER ENTRIES

RTAM.MB.CA n 19

Opportunity!

RTAM is looking for a Rural Chapter to host the 2021 AGM. Please consider showcasing your Chapter and community by hosting this AGM. If your Chapter is interested in hosting the 2021 RTAM AGM Meeting, please write to RTAM, 206-1555 St. James Street, Winnipeg, MB, R3H 1B5, or email office@rtam.mb.ca . It would be helpful to receive your expression of interest prior to December 31, 2019.

20 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

May 5-6, 2020 Retired Women Teachers Association (RWTA) invites all RTAM members to Winnipeg, Manitoba for the RTAM AGM 2020.

RETIRED TEACHERS’

ASSOCIATION OF MANITOBA

RTAM Winter 2020 Photo Contest Official Entry and Release Form

A copy of this form must be completed for each entry submitted to the photo contest. Photos cannot be entered into more than one category. Complete Photo Contest Rules are posted on the RTAM Website (see below).

NAME ADDRESS CITY

PROVINCE

POSTAL CODE

TELEPHONE

EMAIL

PHOTOGRAPH TITLE Please check:

❏ I Am Ready For My Close-Up

❏ Black and White Photography

Take a picture of something 14 centimeters or less and make it look big.

Indoors or outdoors, any subject, but no human faces.

By submitting my entry to the RTAM Photo Contest, I hereby grant permission to the Retired Teachers’ Association (RTAM) to use/edit/reuse my photograph in any and all of its publications and on its website. I understand that there is no time limit on the validity of this release. I confirm that I am a member in good standing of RTAM and I agree to abide by the Photo Contest rules as set forth by RTAM and posted on the RTAM website (https://rtam.mb.ca).

By signing this release form, I acknowledge that I have completely read and understand what this permission signifies.

ENTRY DEADLINE

Name in Print / Signature / Date Signed

April 3, 2020 at 4:00 pm

RTAM Photo Contest Rules Submission Requirements: Print Entries: • All entries sent must have an image which is no smaller than 5” x 7” or larger than 12” x 12”. Square formatted images will be accepted provided that they are not smaller than 7” x 7” or larger than 12” x 12”. Panoramic photos will not be accepted.

• Matted or framed photos will not be accepted.

• Photo titles are mandatory, must be written on the back of prints and match the title on the Contest Official Entry Form.

Electronic Entries: • Electronic photos can also be submitted. The covering email or file name must include the photo title which must match the title on the Contest Official Entry Form. Electronic photos will be printed by RTAM for judging purposes.

Please read the full contest rules at https://rtam.mb.ca/index. php/rtam-kit/photo-contest-rules or at http://bluetilde.ca/2

RTAM.MB.CA n 21

Manitoba 150

Guy Hansen, Chair, Public Relations

T

he province of Manitoba joined Confederation on May 12, 1870, with the passing of the Manitoba Act. Our name, Manitoba, is from the Ojibwe word manidoobaa or the Cree manitou-wapow, or perhaps other similar sounding words from other First Nations groups who lived here.

Each of these words have some relationship with our word “water”. They identify the Narrows of Lake Winnipeg, or they are used in the more general phrase “ water of the prairie”. These, and other similar ancient words help remind us of the long, long past of this place, our province.

Next year, 2020, Manitoba will formally be 150 years old.

And we, RTAM, will try to celebrate this birthday.

The Public Relations Committee started with a small preparatory role as it walked with the MTS contingent in memory of the 1919 Winnipeg General Strike.

years and 150 days from the initial signing date of May 12, 1870.

Maybe you want to initiate an event locally. Let us know. Go for it.

L-R: James Bedford, President of Manitoba Teachers Society, Lloyd Thomas, earlier an electronics teacher; Guy Hansen, Faye Hansen

Life Members We did the same in the Labor Day Parade, again with MTS, and we were there at the Climate Change rally. On that day, My wife, Faye, and I carried our flag. (Ray Job, the PR man for MTS, took the photo.

That’s probably why it is so crisp and clear.)

You, too, can carry this flag, our colors. Check our website for our policy on borrowing it, RTAM will supply it to you.

So hopefully we will be visible at a number of country fairs next summer.

And check out the e-site... Manitoba 150. It’s interesting, and more events are being announced as we enter our 150th year.

The next announcement is to be December 12, 150

22 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

August 2019 Derwyn Davies, Winnipeg, MB Luther E. Judt, Winnipeg, MB Doreen Langdon, Winnipeg, MB Marie Montsion, Winnipeg, MB September 2019 Frank E. Basiuk, Brandon, MB Lloyd R. Franklin, Winnipeg, MB Jennie Goldstine, Winnipeg, MB James Aitken Henderson, Ladysmith, BC Isabelle MacDonald, Winnipeg, MB Abe Siemens, Winnpeg, MB October 2019 Betty I. Bartush, Winnipeg, MB Norma C. Daly, Winnipeg, MB Michael Raymond Joshua, Winnipeg, MB Meroslaw Lakusta, Winnipeg, MB Dirpaul Ramkissoon, Winnipeg, MB Alvin James Wieler, Winnipeg, MB

Normal School Class of '54 Reunion Ray West

M

embers of the Winnipeg Normal School Class of “54,“ held their 65th Anniversary Reunion at Canad Inn Brandon on Friday September 6. There were 38 retired teachers and spouses (27 of whom were from the graduation class of “54“). This was the 11th reunion for this class since graduating. Previous reunions have been held in Winnipeg, Portage La Prairie, Brandon and Roland, Manitoba. Attendees came from as far away as Maple Grove, BC and Kenora, Ontario.

The afternoon started with lunch at Alto’s Cafe and then moved to several teachers telling some of their favourite stories from their careers. Phyllis Lamb spoke with pride how seven of her former students had gone on to be teachers themselves with one graduating from Oxford University in London with a degree in four languages. Lamb said she had to walk several miles to and from the schools she taught in. “ am coming on 88 and I am still using my legs," she said, with a smile.

Members talked about trying to hold another reunion in two years, probably in Winnipeg. At that time, most members will be age 86 or older but it would be great to see their friends again.

Please contact TRAF at info@traf.mb.ca or 204-949-0048 if you know any of the following people, or have information about how they may be reached.

Sharon Brychka Gregory Chomichuk Christine Crnko-Kerr Janice Doiron Andrea Downes Suzanne Erdelyi Christine Everett Nancy Gottfried Christine James John Kerr

David Kidd Kathleen Long Albert Mandepetumpeny Danh Nguyen Holly Parcey Leroy Reimer Sheila Sachvie Ryan Thompson Norma Turner Robert Whiteside

RTAM.MB.CA n 23

The 1919 Winnipeg Strike Revisited Guy Hansen

H

arriet Zaidman wrote a book about the 1919 Winnipeg Strike. It’s about the North End and the cultural mosaic centred around old Selkirk Avenue. It’s about the Sitner family, a brother Jack and his sister Nellie- a hungry family trying to get by as they lived through the strike days. Jack sold newspapers on the very corner where the police charge against the protesters and workers would occur on Bloody Saturday. Jack actually saw what was really happening- but the headlines of his newspapers seemingly told a different story- not his story- a story he had troubles reconciling.

So what was Jack’s world really like?

When the men went to seek out work: “I go for job, but foreman say no work for Bohunks, Kikes, Huns, or Polaks. Is all of us. Is not my fault I not born here.” “in German, Polish, Ukrainian, and Yiddish, all the languages mixed together” the women in the North End Market discussed rising food costs and shortages. Everyone knew a strike was coming, and there was not enough money to stock up on food.

“Francis Simmons is me, Fanny Sitner. It’s the name I use at work… if I didn’t change my name, I wouldn’t have that job.” .…and as ominously reported in the Manitoba Free Press 10 days before Bloody Saturday, CPR ENGINE #965 REACHED THE CITY, LOADED WITH MACHINE GUNS, YESTERDAY. The soldiers, returned from the Great War (WWI) disillusioned, facing no jobs, terrible living conditions in the North End- where many returned to- and NO JOBS. All this same time the Committee of 1000 (actually the group was only about 50 people) took it upon themselves to ‘protect the rights’ of the Winnipeg

24 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

business class. The Committee blatantly refused to negotiate with the workers and actively engaged in putting down the strike. Those same committee members lived south of the Assiniboine River in fine houses and in a much different world to that of the workers who lived in dreadful living and working conditions, with inadequate and unreasonable wages.

Harriet Zaidman’s family was Jewish. Her paternal grandfather Harry was at that Bloody Saturday. The Northwest Mounted Police armed with wagon wheel spokes charged into, and hammered on, the crowd. Harry had tried to pull an NWMP rider from his horse. Pandemonium! Harry then fled and hid in his root cellar.

As a retired teacher-librarian, an author, and a granddaughter, how could Harriet not write this book?

I was indeed fortunate to see Harriet’s presentation and slide show firsthand during the RTAM Board meeting’s lunchtime. Her presentation was specifically for the Public Relations and Political Advocacy committees, but other committee and board members were invited as well. In October, Harriet presented at the SAGE Conference (formerly SAG) and has been invited to speak at a number of Winnipeg schools. If I had a grandchild, early to mid-teens, this book would certainly be a Christmas present.

Thanks, Harriet. Thanks for your awareness and determination. Thanks for smiling so graciously when we presented you with our RTAM pen, even though you already have a room full them.

Harriet’s book is titled CITY ON STRIKE.

The Torch Be Yours To Hold It High

M

acGregor Collegiate Institute holds annually, A Remembrance Day Service that is, for the most part crafted and entirely presented by the students.

It is a respectful and moving experience that, on the morning of November 8th, encompassed tributes to women and war, Indigenous war heroes, a personal retrospect of Afghanistan, and three heroic faces of freedom; all composed and read by the student participants.

Acknowledgement was given to tradition as “The Last Post”, a moment of silence, and “Reveille” were prominent in the program.

However, the most powerful and emotional piece continues to be the reading of the community Honour Roll during which a poppy for each name is pinned on a cross by students, while every second person in the gymnasium stands in respect as each name is read.

It has always been a strong personalization of the numbers lost from families in our area.

This is the 75th anniversary of the Canadian Liberation of the Netherlands. My Father was with the Dutch resistance, and my Mother was a nurse who was “drafted” into the Canadian army for a time as she spoke four languages and interpreters were needed. Not a day goes by that I am not thankful that, partly because of this, my parents brought me to this country as our chosen home.

I am proud that, in commemoration of this liberation, the students of MacGregor Collegiate have planted 128 tulip bulbs this Fall; one for each name on the Honour Role.

I am proud that Edward Roulette laid the Wreath of Remembrance on behalf of the Retired Teachers Association of Manitoba, and that our organization was recognized at this meaningful ceremony.

We all should be proud that the MacGregor Collegiate student body has taken up the torch and holds it high in remembrance and gratitude.

RTAM and MTS

M

TS President James Bedford and Vice President Nathan Martindale visited the RTAM Board during the lunch break on October 16, 2019. The President thanked RTAM for the invitation and proposed possible closer ties between the two organizations at a non-partisan political action level. The co-operation could include the operational level at events such as the recent climate event and literature such as the election postcards. RTAM Board Directors shared in the discussion over the noon hour. RTAM President Peggy Prendergast thanked the MTS representatives for the discussion.

RTAM.MB.CA n 25

Teachers and Students Together Again Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba 15th Annual and Final Gala Reunion Text and photos by Theresa Antoniuk, Committee Chairperson

O

n July 11, 2019 some 84 permit teachers, guests and former students registered for the 15th annual and final Dr. Louisa Loeb Permit Teachers of Manitoba Reunion at the Viscount Gort Hotel in Winnipeg, Manitoba.

The theme of the reunion was once again, “Teachers and Students Together Again”. Permit teachers and former students were invited to attend the gala reunion. Greeting the guests as they arrived were Andy Alexiuk and Ralph Trombo. The registration table was opened from 9:00 to 10:00 am. Welcoming the guests were Registrar, Edith Alexiuk, Karen Boughton, Lavone Lesperance-Caron and Margaret Lesperance.

Guests received a program, bookmark with a photo of a

Elizabeth Bayduza, from Winnipegosis, MB. travelled the farthest to attend the reunion

26 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

Anne Yanchyshyn and Wally Stoyko, Committee Member Dancing

Front Row, L-R: Ralph Trombo, Lavone Lesperance-Caron, Margaret Lespe Boughton. Back Row, L-R: Wally Stoyko - Public Relations, Melvin Bodnaru Missing: Ed Arndt, Vera McCallum.

schoolhouse, color coded meal tickets, door prize tickets and “Meet and Mingle Quiz”, an ice breaker prepared by Edith Alexiuk. The guests had to look at other guests name tags for clues to the questions, e.g. “Find someone that a permit teacher taught the same year that you did”. Coffee, tea, juice and water were available for all participants.

Introduction of Past Chairpersons, according to Margaret Lesperance, the idea of a Permit Teachers Reunion began in 2003 at the summer course for teachers at Brandon University. Dr. Louisa Loeb, presenter of the course met with student Margaret Lesperance. Both having been permit teachers they shared their experiences and considered to start a

Greetings from the City of Winnipeg L-R: His Worship Mayor Brian Bowman, Chair Committee Theresa Antoniuk, Wally Stoyko - Public Relations

Dave Froese at the age of 94, was the first to register for the 15th Annual Reunion of the Permit Teachers

Ralph Trombo, Permit Teacher and Committee Member introduced his student Evelyn Schinkel

erance, Theresa Antoniuk - Chairperson, Edith Alexiuk - Registrar, Karen us - Treasurer, Murray Coates, Bill Badiuk - Acting Secretary, Alex Alexiuk.

Permit Teachers Reunion. In a years’ time in 2004, 28 former permit teachers met informally at the Viscount Gort. The meeting was a success.

In 2005, Dr. Louisa Loeb, a retired Brandon University professor and Margaret Lesperance started the first Permit Teacher’s Reunion. Dr. Louisa Loeb took on the position as chairperson.

Three former permit teachers, Karen Boughton, Lavone Lesperance-Caron and Wally Stoyko joined the committee and assisted in Program Planning.

More former permit teachers joined the reunions but chose not to sign-up for any committees.

Thank you to Dr. Louisa Loeb for compiling a book called “Manitoba Permit Teachers of World War II”.

Due to health reasons, in March 2007 Dr. Louisa Loeb couldn’t continue her term so Margaret Lesperance completed the year as chair and continued as chairperson for the next two years, however in 2009 Margaret found it too difficult to continue therefore at the 5th Permit Teachers Reunion in 2009, elections were held and Theresa Antoniuk became the newly elected chairperson of the 6th Permit Teachers Reunion for 2010.

Using an old fashioned school hand bell Reunion Committee Chair, Theresa welcomed fellow permit teachers, guests and students to the 15TH annual and final reunion. Followed by opening remarks and welcomes the introduction of the past chair persons were announced; Keith Boughton (deceased), Wally Stoyko, Jack Bock and Jack Mohr. Regretfully, our Honorary Member, Dr. Louisa Loeb was unable to attend the reunion. The chairperson also introduced the 2019 committee members whose names were listed in the program and on the group photo.

Introduction of former students by their teachers were as follows: Teacher, Nettie Yarmie; Student, Joanne Fostey, Teacher, Ralph Trombo; Student, Evelyn Schinkel Teacher, Phyllis Lamb; Student, Donna Smith, Teacher, Doreen Richmond; Student, Donna Barling RTAM.MB.CA n 27

"It was a delight to see the guests enjoying themselves and dancing to the fine music. Anne Yanchyshyn, permit teacher even had a dance with her son’s former Windsor School teacher and committee member, Wally Stoyko."

Teacher, Wally Stoyko; (4) Students, Veronica Tokar, Ed Drabyk, Ernie Okrainec, Leona Okrainec.

Special Recognition was given to Dave Froese of Winnipeg, MB. 94 years old and the first to register for the 15th reunion, also a special recognition was given to Elizabeth Bayduza from Winnipegosis, MB. who travelled the farthest to attend the reunion.

The two permit teachers were recognized with a monetary gift presented by the chairperson.

“In Memoriam” was presented by Karen Boughton, followed by grace prior to the delicious luncheon which was prepared and served by the courteous and pleasant staff of the Viscount Gort Hotel.

The Special Presentations Event was chaired by Wally Stoyko who introduced five dignitaries and officials who brought greetings and congratulations to the permit teachers.

His Worship, Mayor Brian Bowman brought greetings on behalf of the City of Winnipeg, followed by, Ralph Groening, President of the Manitoba School Boards Association.

Kent McPherson, on behalf of James Bedford, President of the Manitoba Teachers Society. Allan Campbell, President of the Manitoba Municipalities Association. MLA James Teitsma on behalf of Kelvin Goertzen, Minister of Education. Wally Stoyko graciously thanked the dignitaries for taking the time to bring greetings. Thank you Wally for getting all the dignitaries to bring greetings. Edith Alexiuk introduced and thanked the Southglen Fiddlers who entertained the Reunion Permit Teachers and guest with wonderful music. It was a delight to see the guests enjoying themselves and dancing to the fine music. Anne Yanchyshyn, permit teacher even had a dance with her son’s former Windsor School teacher and committee member, Wally Stoyko. Edith Alexiuk presented the band with an honorarium.

28 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

Following the entertainment, three groups of photos were taken. First group was from years 1940-1949, second group was from years 19501960 and later, the third group was from the 2019 Permit Teachers Reunion Committee. Thank you to Mel Bodnarus and Bil Badiuk for looking after the collection of money for developing the photos.

Our thanks are extended to the many generous donors who donated door prizes which were presented by Wally Stoyko. It was indeed an honor and pleasure working with the past and present reunion committees. Thank you for your help and efficient expertise over the years that I was committee chairperson.

Following the Permit Teachers Reunion a committee meeting was held in a private room at the Viscount Gort Hotel with 10 members present. Absent were, Vera McCallum, Ed Arndt and Margaret Lesperance. General discussions took place regarding the recent celebration of the 15th Annual Reunion. There was geneal agreement that the reunion was very successful. Treasurer, Mel Bodnarus presented an interim report of the committee financial status. The completed report was presented on September 19, 2019 at Canad Inns-Transcona, where another meeting was held by the Reunion Committee with 12 members in attendance. The two banners related to the Permit Teachers Reunion will be taken to the MTS by Wally Stoyko. Photographs were distributed as well as the ties and socks that were received by the reunion committee from the Mayor’s Office as a token of appreciation for the committees work in preserving the history of “Permit Teachers in Manitoba”.

A Permit Teachers informal get together will be held tentatively on July 9, 2020 at Canad InnsTranscona.

“THE BIG PAYOFF” For Reading Beth Smith

F

ind the answers to the following questions and submit your entry by; a) email to bxssmith@mymts.net, with KIT Reading Contest in the subject line, or b) by mail to Beth Smith, RTAM KIT Reading Contest, 206-1555 St. James St., Winnipeg, MB R3H 1B5.

Submissions must be received by ___________________. A random draw among those entries with all answers correct will determine the winner. Be sure to include your name, mailing address, and phone number. The prize is your choice of a $15.00 gift card; Tim Horton’s, Superstore, McDonald’s, Subway. Please identify which gift card you prefer. The winner will be announced in the next edition of KIT. Good Luck!

1. What event occurred on May 25, 2019 where hundreds of Manitoba public school teachers joined with hundreds of others?

2.

What does Johnson, the Johnson Insurance mascot, have to say about Home Insurance?

3. What did the Winnipeg Normal School Class of 1954 do for their 65th Anniversary Reunion?

4. How much money did the Dauphin Area Retired Teachers donate to the Alzheimer’s Society?

5. What year will the MTS 100th Anniversary Time Capsule be re-opened?

6. Identify the group of people dressed in costume at the MTS 100th Anniversary Gala.

7. What year did the United Nations General Assembly establish the International Day of Older Persons?

8. Identify the slogan for the MTS 100th Anniversary Celebration.

9. What year was Duty-free lunch established?

10. Name the presenter of the Photography Workshop on Friday, September 20, 2019.

The winner of the KIT Fall 2019 contest is Doreen Perrin of Brandon, MB.

In Memoriam April 2019 Rita M. Fisher, Qualicum Beach, BC June 2019 Gail Marie-Anne Cochrane, Portage la Prairie, MB July 2019 Aubrey A. Asper, Winnipeg, MB Marie A. Ayotte, Winnipeg, MB Bernice R. Blakeman, Winnipeg, MB Ronald Bruce Bodie, East St. Paul. MB John Albines Gray, Winnipeg, MB Jack Kaplan, Winnipeg, MB Sophie Kominetsky, Saskatoon, SK Robert Denis Lovatt, Winnipeg, MB Richard Charles Pugh, Vancouver, BC Margaret H. Putnam, Winnipeg, MB Marion K. Stevens, Winnipeg, MB Irene Olga Stevenson, St. Andrews, MB Gwendolyn Doreen Streich, Clandeboye, MB

August 2019

September 2019

Frances-Mary Brown, Winnipeg, MB Arthur T. Bryant, Winnipeg, MB Cecil Edmund Grant, Winnipeg, MB Nestor Gylywoychuk, Winnipeg, MB Katherine Elizabeth Kennedy, East Selkirk, MB Jeannette Rollande Martin, Winnipeg, MB Olga A. Nahirniak, Winnipeg, MB Hildegard Sen, Winnipeg, MB Bruce Howard Silversides, Winnipeg, MB John Ross Skabar, Winnipeg, MB Archie Stone, Winnipeg, MB L.J. Maxwell Taylor, Qualicum Beach, BC L. Jean Thiessen, Winnipeg, MB S. Jesmondine Thompson, Whitehorse, YT Mary Veenhuyzen, Winnipeg, MB Phyllis M. Wolfe, Brandon, MB

Mark William Bishop, Winnipeg, MB Kathleen Blanche De Pape, St. Claude, MB Sherry Louise Evans, Winnipeg, MB Francis Gerard Fontaine, Winnipeg, MB Walter O. Fuller, Dauphin, MB Luc Albert Gamache, MacGregor, MB Ronald C. Kirbyson, Winnipeg, MB Harley Alvin McKellar, Sanford, MB James Richard Partridge, Winnipeg, MB Deo Harry Poonwassie, Winnipeg, MB Edward P. Reimer, Steinbach, MB Donald J. Soutter, Winnipeg, MB Maureen Karen Wiebe, Portage la Prairie, MB

RTAM.MB.CA n 29

Caregiving With Confidence

C

aregiving with Confidence is a non-profit agency that provides support and resources to informal and family caregivers. We are in urgent need of volunteer drivers for our RingA-Ride program. Many older adults experience a loss of independence due to the inability to drive. Our volunteers help clients maintain their self sufficiency by providing transportation and support, to and from their appointments. If you would like to help older adults in your community

30 n RTAM KIT Winter 2019

and you enjoy driving, this is the opportunity for you! We offer driver orientation, flexible schedules, and an honorarium for every ride that is completed, to offset your costs.

For more information, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at cwc@aosupportservices. ca or call our office at 204-452-9491.

An application form is also available at http:// caregivingwithconfidence.org/volunteeropportunities/

NOTICES & COMING EVENTS Frontier School Division

Frontier School Division is committed to providing highest quality education in each of our 43 schools.

The most essential component in providing this is the classroom teacher. In response to our current teacher shortage, we are establishing the Term Teacher Program.

The Term Teacher Program is intended to provide teachers who, for a variety of reasons, are not able or do not wish to teach full-time. This may include retired teachers who wish to teach seasonally, job share for the school year (i.e. one teacher for the first term and another for the second term), teachers who have personal needs that preclude full-time employment or teachers who may be game for a new experience without making a full-time commitment.

The Term Teacher Program provides opportunity to determine when and where you are willing to teach. We are open to discussing options that meet your needs.

The Term Teacher Program will ensure all options are explored to match the needs of the school and the skills of the teacher.

Currently, we have a number of positions available in a variety of grades/subject areas for the 2019-20 school year. These are available due to various circumstances, which may include: • Maternity/parental leaves; • Medical Leaves; • Specialty subject area assignments; • Unexpected departures.

For more information regarding the opportunities available through this Program, please contact Human Resources via email at HR@fsdnet.ca.

Looking for retired teachers in Winnipeg!!!

Would you like to make a difference by helping our community members to learn and to speak English?

Marlene Street Community Resource Centre is a nonprofit organization located in St. Vital, Winnipeg. We provide support and services to low-income families which include children, youth, single parents, Indigenous families and newcomers. Parking space available on site.

For more information, contact: Saima Siddiqui (Adult Program Coordinator) or Angela Konkin (Executive Director): 204-253-8994 or email: msacord@shaw.ca

Winnipeg Normal School Class of '54

Hold the Date: Friday, September 17, 2021, 11:00 a.m. 3:00 p.m. at Canad Inn Polo Park, Winnipeg Celebrating 67th Reunion. This will be the 12th Reunion for this class. For further information contact: Mary Starodub, Winnipeg: 204-889-6046 Morris Demkiw, Winnipeg: 204-832-5413. Also watch KIT for further information. - Mary and Morris

Frontier School Division offers a competitive salary as well as a number of additional benefits and allowances such as moving expenses, annual travel, housing and isolation.

PNS Class of 1955-56

A Class Luncheon is planned for Thursday, June 11th 2020 If interested in attending e-mail Normalschool56@mymts.net Or write: PNS 1955-56 314-895 Wilkes Avenue, Winnipeg MB R3P 1B8

Carman Collegiate Class of 1959 and 1960

A 60th Reunion for Carman Collegiate Class of 1959 and 1960 is being planned for July 2020. We are looking for the following former teachers or classmates: Linda Lucht, Miss Ishenburg, Chester Johnson, Heather Hepworth, Miss Oberck, Miss Connor, Joe Segal, Colleen McCann, Mrs. Cartwright, Bob Sutton, Wallace Linton And Don Suderman. Please contact Willa Keith at willakeith3319@icloud.com or at (204) 745-2714.

RTAM.MB.CA n 31

Home insurance savings worth rolling over for.

“Home treat home.

I crack myself up.”

Get a quote & you’ll be entered for a chance to

Do you feel at home with your home insurance?

WIN † $25,000

As a member of RTAM you get preferred rates on home insurance through Johnson, plus extra treats like first claim forgiveness and 24/7 claims service.

Plus, protect the time, effort, and money you put into planning a trip with MEDOC® Travel Insurance.

1.877.742.7490 Johnson.ca/exclusive-savings

Johnson Inc. is a licensed insurance intermediary and operates as Johnson Inc in Manitoba. Home policies underwritten and claims handled, by Unifund Assurance Company (“UAC”). Described coverage and benefits applicable only to policies underwritten by UAC in Manitoba. Eligibility requirements, limitations, exclusions or additional costs may apply, and/or may vary by province or territory. Car insurance not available in BC, MB and SK. MEDOC® is a Registered Trademark of JI. This insurance product is underwritten

by Royal & Sun Alliance Insurance Company of Canada (“RSA”) and administered by JI. Valid provincial or territorial health plan coverage required. Travel Assistance provided

by Global Excel Management Inc. The eligibility requirements, terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions which apply to the described coverage are as set out in the policy.

Policy wordings prevail. JI, UAC and RSA share common ownership. †NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Open January 1, 2019 – April 30, 2020 to legal residents of Canada (excluding NU) who have reached the age of majority in their jurisdiction of residence and are a member of a recognized group of JI with whom JI has an insurance agreement. One (1) available prize of $25,000 CAD. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Math skill test required. Rules: www1.johnson.ca/cash2019.